In the context of buoying offshore, "proceeding from seaward" refers to lateral system buoys proceeding in which direction on the Atlantic Coast?

When discussing buoying offshore in the context of the lateral system, "proceeding from seaward" refers specifically to the direction mariners approach from the ocean toward the shore. In the Atlantic Coast's lateral system, the convention is for intracoastal navigation to have red buoys on the right-hand side when traveling toward the harbor or head of navigation. As a result, when mariners are coming from the open sea and moving toward the inland waterways, they are generally moving from south to north along the eastern seaboard.

The choice stating "north to south" is correct in the context of how the wording "proceeding from seaward" applies to navigation patterns as boats usually proceed in that direction when approaching the coast from the Atlantic. This directional understanding is critical for safe navigation, as it helps mariners locate buoys accurately and avoid hazards.

The other options do not accurately reflect the established navigation conventions on the Atlantic Coast, which predominantly feature the north-south orientation for vessels entering from the sea. Hence, the correct answer aligns with the navigational rules established by the U.S. Coast Guard for the lateral buoyage system on this coast.